Premises liability is the phrase used to describe that area of personal injury law which involves an injury event occurring as a result of a defective or unreasonably dangerous condition on property owned by someone other than the injured person. Simply, the law of premises liability imposes upon the owner (possessor) of property a legal duty or obligation to maintain the property in a condition free of unreasonably dangerous conditions.
If a person is injured as a result of an unreasonably dangerous condition allowed to exist on the premises, then the property owner may be held liable or legally responsible for the occurrence of the injury event. The consequence of that liability is that the property owner may be required to pay monetary compensation to the injured person to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of income. Most businesses and residential property owners insure their property with an insurance policy which includes liability coverage.
An unexpected fall can result in a very serious personal injury for an adult. Among the more common injuries are wrist fractures, shoulder separations, severe ankle sprains, and concussions.
If you experience a fall and sustain personal injuries, it would be the wise choice to consult with a personal injury lawyer. Obtain an evaluation of your claim, and determine if the owner of the property where you fell should be regarded as liable or legally responsible for the occurrence and consequences of your fall.
Do not rely upon the "advice" of a claims representative employed by the insurance company which insures the property owner. That person is not an unbiased objective evaluator of the merits of your premises liability claim. Instead, confer with a lawyer who works only for you, and who will provide you with a fair and unbiased evaluation of your claim. A personal injury lawyer has the skills necessary to determine the settlement value of your claim and to conduct the negotiations on your behalf with the liability insurer's claims representative. Never try to represent yourself in this type of matter.
Premises liability law is a necessary element in our society's structure. The fact is, sorrowfully, that many property owners simply would disregard the condition of their property and fail to make necessary repairs without the inducement of potential liability for their neglect. The influence of personal injury law has allowed us to live today in the safest society in the world, where each of us is held accountable for our duty to protect the safety and welfare of others. Financial risk mandates an awareness of premises liability law in the minds of every property owner in our country. It has to be that way.
If you experience a fall, and sustain a personal injury, then you may gain a greater appreciation for the importance of premises liability law. To be disabled, have unpaid medical bills, and loss of income, can have devastating consequences in a person's life. Never feel guilty, shameful, or immoral to exercise your legal rights and protect your family's interests by seeking a conference with a personal injury attorney.
